Understanding LED Lighting

Use this guide to help you understand the lighting facts on your new LED bulbs.

To learn more about where and how to use your new bulbs; refer to the frequently asked questions below:

CAN I DIM LED LIGHT BULBS?While many LED bulbs are dimmable, they do not dim in the same way as incandescent bulbs. Because LEDs consume such a low wattage, many traditional dimmers do not function with LEDs and those that do may function in a different way than with high wattage incandescent bulbs. When using an LED in a dimmable application, you may experience:

A smaller dimming range. An incandescent bulb has a dimmable range of 100%; an LED’s range is between 70% and 90%.

The bulb may not shut off completely, even on the lowest dim setting. Because of the low wattage consumed by an LED, the bulb may stay illuminated when the dimmer is completely off.

Flickering. LEDs may flicker when dimmed because of the small fluctuations in power on the line.

No change in color. As an LED is dimmed, they do not shift color. Traditional incandescent bulbs offer a soft fiery glow when dimmed; an LED remains the same color, its brightness is simply reduced. If you plan to use LEDs in a dimmable application, you may want to install a dimmer specifically for use with LEDs.

WHERE SHOULD I INSTALL MY NEW LED BULBS?If possible, replace all your incandescent bulbs LEDs or take a look around your home to determine which lights are on most often – those are the lights that would benefit most from making the change to LED.

Entryway light fixture

Table/Floor Lamp

Central ceiling fixture

Hall light

Sconce

CAN I USE an A-Type omnidirectional LED bulb IN MY CANNED LIGHTING?Yes, however an LED Flood is designed for these applications. If you choose to use an A-Type bulb in a can fixture the life of the bulb may be shortened. Traditional cans are well insulated. An incandescent bulb emits heat from the bulb and out in to the living space; an LED emits heat from the back and up in to the insulated can, giving the heat nowhere to escape. This heat exposure can shorten the life of an LED bulb. If you are interested in using LEDs in your canned lighting, select LED flood lamps.